At the 13th International Architecture Exhibition of la Biennale di Venezia 2012, Olafur Elisasson responds to David Chipperfield’s Common Ground exhibition theme by presenting his new artwork, Little Sun — a solar-powered lamp, designed by Elisasson together with engineer Frederik Ottesen, for the 1.6 billion people worldwide who live off the electrical grid. This work responds to the situation we face today, where natural resources are no longer around. “Little sun transforms the light that is for all of us into light that is for each of us.”

In two gallery spaces of the Central Pavilion, Elisasson makes our experience of light physical. One space includes a new short film, realised by acclaimed Philippine director Khavn upon Eliasson’s invitation, which features a merman seeking his appropriate environment within the city of Manila.

According to Eliasson, it is only through the physical experience of light and darkness that one can truly understand the implications of not having light. Experiences create actions. Light should be for all. Help make this possible!

By buying Little Sun at full price in areas of the world with electricity, you help make it available at a lower price to communities with no or inconsistent electricity. Retailers close to off-grid communities are able to make a profit while keeping Little Sun affordable, so that the lamps reach those users who do not have access to electricity — where Little Sun can make the most difference.